Well here we go folks. The outlook for the next two weeks is . . . HOT! HOT! HOT!
I must admit. Those two words “Hot and Humid” make me run for cover. But I will take them over the ice and freezing winds we get out here on our little farm in the winter months.
I can remember a time when I LOVED the winter months. What? Was I going nuts!? My feelings sure have changed about that over the years. I am told this is normal with the aging process. Ha.Ha.

But I digress. Where was I? Oh yes, here we are roasting in the heat, trying to stay comfortable and not melt. I worry more about our animals outside more than anything during a heat wave. I keep thinking what it would be like to have to stay outside on days like these with a fur coat on. UGH!

Please make sure all of your fur babies have plenty of water, and a place to go out of the direct sunlight. And all pets and livestock should be checked on, several times throughout the day.

We do not have air in our home with the exception of the bedroom. Luckily, our home is partially under ground. This helps keep it a bit cooler in the summer, and warmer in the winter. And for those of us without air in our homes, I have gathered a few helpful tips on keeping cool during the dog days of summer.

1. Drink lots of water. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
2. Keep the shades pulled and all doors and windows closed, this can help maintain the cool of the morning throughout the day keeping the hot air outside. I also have the fans running.
3.Doing the majority of your chores between 4 and 8 A.M. also helps as this is the coolest part of the day.
4. Dressing is very important. Dress in loose clothing in cool colors like white or other light summer colors, it helps if the fabric is a light cotton or linen.
5.Between 2 and 6 during the day is a good time to go to the grocery store, a movie, the library, you get the idea, a place with air conditioning.
6. Try not to generate too much heat while you are in the home such as, lights left on, the stove or oven. A cold plate lunch and dinner with cold meats, cheeses and fruits work well on hot days. This would be a good time to get better acquainted with your microwave.
Lastly, if you must (Like a certain husband I know.) be out in the elements doing chores and what not. Take a cool, wet, hand towel or dish towel and drape it around your neck, and refresh it under a running spigot or hose when needed. Don’t forget to keep a hat on to shield your head from the sun, and use a sun screen.
A life-threatening heat stroke can happen quickly, and before you know it, your in deep trouble. Some signs to watch for are:

Skin may become moist and clammy, or it can go opposite . . . hot and dry.
Fainting, nausea and fatigue are also associated with heat exhaustion.
So friends, please watch yourself, your loved ones, and your pets closely during these hot times.
Hope these tips come in handy. Stay cool!
Pam:)